Trailer Hitch for 2013 Kia Soul to Allow Transport of Mobility Scooter

Question:

I have a 2013 Kia Soul Sporta. I have a mobility unlit that I need to tow around for doctors appointments etc. Do you have a hitch and an upgrade for the shock assist that will be lessen the load on my wifes auto? Sincerely

asked by: Ken S

Expert Reply:

Several brands of Class I trailer hitch are offered for the 2013 Kia Soul and all can be seen on the link provided, including the Draw-Tite # 24839 which is the most cost-effective option. All three are light-duty Class I hitches that carry a maximum tongue weight rating of 200-lbs (tongue weight is the measure of downward force on a hitch such as that applied by a scooter carrier). Please see the linked article on hitch classes.

It is possible that the combined weight of your mobility scooter plus its carrier will exceed the hitch's capacity, the vehicle's capacity, or both. Review your Soul owner's manual or speak to your dealership to confirm the vehicle's tongue weight rating (which may be lower than the hitch's).

According to my research the 2013 Kia Soul does not carry a rated towing capacity so even using a small utility trailer would not give you the ability to transport a scooter on this vehicle. Unfortunately the vehicle's light construction prevents using it for towing or carrying heavy loads.

The only possibility is if you use a lightweight Class I cargo carrier like the Curt # C18110 (that weighs only 30-lbs). If your scooter will fit on this carrier and if it weighs no more than about 170-lbs maximum then you would remain within the hitch's capacity. You will want to check to make certain that the vehicle itself can handle this weight.

expert reply by: Adam R